Free Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine Photo Exhibition on Floor 37, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G

Artist and photographer Samatcha Apaisuwan, in collaboration with Scarlett Outsider Gallery, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G and Ba Space, is presenting the photo exhibition Wearing the Eternal Soul to convey the story of faith and the way of life of the Chinese community around Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine, Saphan Lueang, amidst urban development. This exhibition features a selection of 20 photographs reflecting historical and cultural perspectives undergoing transition in the Banthat Thong and Sam Yan neighbourhoods. Visitors can attend free of charge from 16 November 2026 to 26 February 2027 at Scarlett Outsider Gallery on the 37th floor of Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, Silom Road.

Documenting the Changes of the Saphan Lueang Community and the Chinese Opera Tradition

This body of work began in 2016 after the photographer learned of the notice to reclaim the shrine's land for development into a contemporary project, prompting continuous visits to document the changes and a selection of key photographs taken from 2017 onwards. From a shrine that once stood in the middle of a spacious community and shops, it is now surrounded by high-rise construction hoardings, leaving only a narrow walkway leading into the shrine itself. This photographic series therefore serves to preserve the memory of the place and the faith of the people that has never faded over time.

A key focus of the exhibition also takes viewers back to explore the Sia Sing tradition, the year-end thanksgiving ceremony for the deities, which in the past featured lively performances by 2 competing Chinese opera troupes before later decreasing to just 1 small stage. In an era when entertainment media was not yet widespread, Chinese opera performances served as an activity that brought community members back together after working throughout the year. Moreover, younger generations from the community performed on stage while their families sat in front watching and cheering them on, forming a bond passed down from generation to generation.

In addition, the photographs reveal the rarely seen colours and behind-the-scenes details of the Chinese opera performances, including costumes, backdrops, artistic elements and the way of life of the people amidst modern economic expansion. Today, the Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine site continues to see active campaigning by Chulalongkorn University students, community residents and the public through the #saveศาลเจ้าแม่ทับทิม campaign calling for the preservation of this historical and spiritual space. The exhibition thus invites viewers to question the meaning of urban development that measures value through economic figures, which may squeeze traditions and human bonds into an ever-smaller space.

Over 150 Years of Historical Value and Teochew Chinese Artistry

This Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine reflects the history of a Chinese community with roots stretching back over 150 years, with stories of devotion to Chao Mae Tuptim, or Thian Hou Sia Bo, dating back to the founding of the Saphan Lueang community during the reign of King Rama V. Although the current building is around 5 decades old, it retains its Teochew Chinese architectural and artistic value, including the building structure, roof, decorative ceramic figurines, gilded and vermilion-lacquered wood carvings on the throne, dragon pillars inscribed with Chinese poetry, and deity statues carved by a skilled Chinese craftsman of the past named Pia Buay. Inside, the shrine also preserves a royal incense burner bestowed by King Rama VI bearing the royal cypher ChPorRor alongside Chinese characters, presented as a royal funerary offering at the royal cremation ceremony of King Rama V in 1911.

Exhibition Visitor Information

This exhibition is suited to travellers and art enthusiasts looking for a cultural attraction on Silom Road during the evening and night hours. At the same time, hotel professionals can recommend this photography exhibition to guests wishing to experience the historical story of a Chinese community in Bangkok, while event organisers can visit for guidance on using hotel spaces to host art and cultural activities.